The Kennel Club describes Staffordshire bull terriers as “one of the most popular of all the terriers. With the human race, he is kindness itself, and his genuine love of children is well known. He is descended from a cross between the bulldog and a terrier, and thus combines the temperaments of the two breeds”.

Many rescue centres across the country are struggling with the rising intake of bull breeds.

The Northamptonshire branch believes that the answer to this rising problem is to clamp down on the breeders who produce litter after litter.

Welfare manager Dawn Smith said: “Neutering is the only way to reduce the population of so many unwanted dogs.

“Dogs can be neutered from six months of age, and not only does it have many health benefits, you will also be doing your bit to help the growing crisis of pets being abandoned, dumped or given away because there aren’t enough homes to go around.”

To make a dontation to the RSPCA text KITT13 £3 to 70070 to give £3 (Texts cost £3 + one standard network rate message).